Northeast News
February 8, 2012

Heath care just got a little cheaper for Kansas Citians.

Now that Kansas City is participating in the WellCard Health Discount Card Program, Kansas Citians will have access to discounts on prescription drugs and on dental, physician, hearing care and vision services.

It’s all available at no cost to taxpayers.

“With many residents concerned about the continuing rise of health care costs, this discount card program will be viewed as a welcome option for many,” Kansas City City Council member John Sharp said.

More than 59,000 pharmacies across the U.S. accept the WellCard, as well as 410,000 physicians.

Those using the card will receive an average savings of up to 65 percent on prescription drugs and up to 30 percent on medical visits. To participate, residents must present their WellCard when buying a prescription not covered by insurance or Medicare Part D, or when visiting a participating physician, dentist or other health care practitioner. One card covers all family members. WellCard stresses that the program is not health insurance, but a program that provides discounts through participating medical providers.

For vision care, more than 10,500 optical centers offer discounts of up to 50 percent off of the regular retail price of eyeglasses, contact lenses, sunglasses and corrective eye surgery. In addition to local optical providers, discounts are available at major retailers like Sears Optical, JCPenney Optical, Target Optical, LensCrafters, Eye Masters, Walmart Vision and others. All discounts are applied at the point of sale.

Discounts are also available for routine lab work. When members pay in advance for tests, they receive an average savings of 40 percent.

Another feature of the WellCard program includes access to bill negotiators to receive discounts of 10 percent to 70 percent on medical bills. Any medical bill over $200 is eligible for review and negotiation. WellCard members will receive special pricing to use the bill negotiator services and if the bill isn’t reduced, there’s no fee.

Those with the WellCard will also have access to a licensed physician – “24/7 Doctor” – via phone or email. Members can use the service when primary care physicians are not available; for non-emergency medical issues, questions or concerns; and for prescription medication or refills.

To sign up for a card or for more information, visit www.wellcardhealth.com.